Understanding Tantra and Its Practices: The First Method


Tantra is a spiritual practice that has garnered significant attention in recent years. With an increase in the number of tantra camps, many people are curious about what tantra truly involves. However, there is a noticeable lack of basic information available for those new to meditation and tantra, especially for participants who are attending tantra camps without knowing the essential details about the practice. Unfortunately, this often leads to confusion and misdirection.

One of the main concerns among those attending tantra camps is whether the practice is primarily about physical intimacy or sexual methods. This misunderstanding arises due to the way some camps are presented. However, it's important to clarify that tantra is not centered on Kama Sutra or sexual practices. While there are a total of 112 methods in the system of Vigyan Bhairav Tantra, only three of these methods relate to physical intimacy, while the rest are focused on breath work, meditation, and energy.

For beginners or anyone curious about tantra, understanding the basic methods is crucial. One of the core elements of tantra is learning to harness the breath and the energy it carries. The very first method of Vigyan Bhairav Tantra emphasizes breath control, but not in the way many people assume.

First Method: Focusing on the Breath

The first method involves the conscious observation of the breath, with a focus on the moments when we are neither inhaling nor exhaling but simply present in between. It might seem like a simple practice, but it requires deep attention and awareness.

1. Inhale, Stop, Exhale, Stop  

The technique involves inhaling deeply, stopping the breath momentarily, then exhaling and stopping again. The pause between inhaling and exhaling is crucial. This fraction of time - often less than a second - is the key point of focus. We are alive during this pause, even though we are not breathing. It is a moment where we can truly experience stillness and presence.

2. Catch the Pause  

The goal is to catch that brief pause, that instant when the breath is suspended. We are not breathing, yet we are alive. This delicate balance between inhaling and exhaling, with the pauses in between, represents a moment of spiritual connection. By being fully aware of this in-between time, practitioners can go deeper into their meditation practice.

3. How to Practice  

The practice is simple: sit comfortably and observe your breath. As you breathe in, feel the air touch the nostrils and move inward. As you breathe out, feel the air leaving the nostrils. The key is to stay present in the moment, watching the breath without trying to control it, just observing the natural flow. As you do this, pay attention to the pause - the moment when neither breath is being inhaled nor exhaled. It’s in this stillness where a deeper awareness can be found.

Creating the Right Environment for Meditation

Before diving into this first method, it’s helpful to create a conducive environment for meditation. If possible, set aside a dedicated space where you can meditate regularly. This space should only be used for meditation, as it will become charged with the energy of your practice. Consistency is key, and having a set time each day for meditation will help you build a strong, positive association with your practice.

Meditation is about being comfortable, and having a dedicated space where you can feel relaxed and focused will significantly enhance your experience. Over time, you’ll find that even the simplest practices, like focusing on your breath, will become more profound and meaningful as your awareness deepens.

Why This Practice Works

The act of watching the breath and focusing on the pauses between inhaling and exhaling might seem simple, but it is deeply transformative. It requires patience and presence, which are at the core of spiritual practice. This method helps the practitioner move away from distractions, allowing them to experience the miracle of life in its most fundamental form.

By practicing this method, you are essentially training your mind to stay in the present moment, which is a powerful tool for personal transformation. With consistent practice, even short moments of awareness can lead to profound insights and a deeper connection with oneself.

Conclusion

Tantra is much more than the misconceptions surrounding it. It is about energy, awareness, and personal transformation. The first method of Vigyan Bhairav Tantra, which involves focusing on the breath and catching the pauses, is just one of many practices that can help guide you on your spiritual journey. If you’re new to meditation or tantra, starting with this simple yet profound practice can be the first step toward deeper awareness and inner peace.

Remember, the most important part of tantra is to experience it with an open mind and a sincere heart. The journey might seem challenging at times, but with patience and consistency, the benefits of tantra will unfold in meaningful ways.

C. P. Kumar
Energy Healer & Blogger

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